The beach is beautiful as always. Here's some helpful information about Cape Hatteras National Seashore beaches and facilities during this difficult time.  

• All indoor facilities at Cape Hatteras National Seashore (Seashore) are currently closed in order to minimize potential spread of COVID-19, consistent with federal, state, and local advisories.

• As services are limited, the Seashore urges visitors to continue to practice Leave No Trace principles, including pack-in and pack-out, to keep outdoor spaces safe and healthy.

• Outdoor spaces remain open for the purposes of activities described under North Carolina’s Executive Order 121 (FAQs) and Dare County’s “Stay Home – Stay Healthy” declaration.

• At this time, all beachgoers should not gather in groups of more than 10 people and should practice adequate social distancing. Seashore Rangers are patrolling the beaches to ensure visitors are meeting the President’s Coronavirus Guidelines for America.

• For current beach access information, click here. Off-road vehicle permits can be purchased online at www.recreation.gov. 

• Beachgoers should use caution in the ocean as no lifeguards are on duty at this time of year.

• The start of the 2020 camping season is postponed until further notice.

• The start of the 2020 lighthouse climbing season is postponed until further notice.

• For National Park Service COVID-19 updates, visit www.nps.gov/coronavirus.

  

  "Sky Serenity" by Mary Bassell 16x20, soft pastels. Mary is an Ocracoke artist who's known for her pastel paintings of the island's beauty. Call 252-573-9195 for your own original or click on the painting to link to her Facebook page.